Description of the Procedure

An incision will be made in the skin above the knee. Next, the muscles will be divided and the blood vessels clamped. A special saw is used to cut through the bone. The muscles are then sewn and shaped so that a stump is formed to cushion the bone. Nerves are divided and placed so they do not cause pain. The skin is closed over the muscles, forming the stump. Drains may be inserted into the stump to drain blood for the first few days after surgery. A dressing and compression stocking will be placed over the stump.

How Long Will It Take?

Several hours, depending on your health and the reason for the surgery.

How Much Will It Hurt?

Anesthesia will prevent pain during surgery. Pain and discomfort after the procedure can be managed with medications.

Average Hospital Stay

The usual length of stay is 5-14 days. It is possible that you may have to stay longer if complications arise. You may also go to a rehabilitation hospital to help you recover.

Post-procedure Care

At the Hospital

Right after the procedure, you will be in a recovery room where your blood pressure, pulse, and breathing will be monitored. Recovery may also include:

Pain medications

Antibiotics to prevent infection

Medication to prevent blood clots

Physical therapy often starts within 24 hours after your surgery. During this time you may need devices to help you walk.

Preventing Infection

During your stay, the hospital staff will take steps to reduce your chance of infection, such as:

Washing their hands

Wearing gloves or masks

Keeping your incisions covered

There are also steps you can take to reduce your chance of infection, such as:

Washing your hands often and reminding your healthcare providers to do the same

Reminding your healthcare providers to wear gloves or masks

Not allowing others to touch your incision

At Home

When you return home, you will continue with physical therapy and exercise. You will be instructed on how to care for the residual limb. Medications may be prescribed to manage pain.

Adjusting to an amputation may be difficult and can lead to
depression. Consider talking to a therapist or psychologist.

Call Your Doctor

Contact your doctor if your recovery is not progressing as expected or you develop complications, such as:

Increased swelling in the residual limb

Poorly fitting prosthesis

Pain that cannot be controlled with the medications you were given

Signs of infection, such as fever or chills

Increasing redness, swelling, increasing pain, excess bleeding, or discharge from the incision site

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.